Dive deep into the history of tattooing as well as our air born ancestors…
United Ink is so big we had to create a second show! The Cradle of Aviation Museum is our new backdrop, the perfect setting for the Ultimate Tattoo convention.
United Ink is unlike any other tattoo convention you’ve seen before. Completely open to the public, the convention is the perfect day for the whole family with entertainment like magicians and suspension shows, music, games, contests, live tattooing and piercing, seminars, an artist lounge, art exhibits, and so much more it’s hard to list it all!

At the United Ink convention, you can watch the world’s best artists pierce and tattoo, and if you’re in the market for new ink or piercings, this is the place to be. Why not let one of the globe’s most talented artist use your body as their newest canvas?
And there’s plenty for the kids to do, too. United Ink will offer face painting (baby’s first tattoo!), temporary tattoos, coloring contests, flash art contests and even more for the little tattoo fans in your life.

Tickets will be available on our site soon – Please contact Jackie@newyorktattooshow.com for more details. – Tickets will also be available at the Expo Box Office on September 9th. Those interested in sponsorship opportunities can contact our offices:

For information on booking with the Expo -Celebrities/Bands/Entertainers -

Tattoo Lou’s is here to remind you of proper convention photography etiquette. We want everyone to have a great time at United Ink Tattoo & Body Arts Expo—maybe you can even learn a thing or two about the art of body modification—but we want to make sure that everyone is safe, as well!

DO ask an artist, piercer, or subject if you can take a photograph.

Be nice! With all the time and effort put into the killer tattoos you’ll see at the convention, it’s nice not to be treated like a zoo animal. Ask nicely for permission before your photograph your subject. They’ll appreciate your asking instead of immediately flashing lights like a paparazzi.

DO show the picture after you’ve taken it.

Showing the picture you’ve taken to the artist, piercer, or tattoo subject is common courtesy, just to ensure that the photo you’ve taken works for both of you. And who doesn’t love some instant feedback? This also helps your portfolio, if you’re trying to build one.

DO thank the subject after you’ve taken a photo.

Maybe you didn’t listen when your mother said it, or you missed that day in Sunday school, but “please” and “thank you” make the world go ‘round. That applies here too.DON’T throw a fit if someone declines your request for a picture.

Sure, it’s not hard to pose for a photo, but when you’ve had a day of flashes in your face, you may not want to be present for another. If you ask to take a picture of a tattoo or artist and the artist declines, say “ok, thank you” and move on. No need to throw a tantrum! There will be plenty of other people to photograph and take photos with.

DON’T smack-talk someone else’s camera.

Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Olympus, Sony—who cares? A good photographer can take a great snapshot with a disposable point-and-shoot, so save the brand pissing match for another time. Or never, really. Having a thousand dollar camera doesn’t make you better than the guy who spent $100.

DO chat with other photographers.

See another photographer snapping some great shots of the ink and piercings at the convention? Strike up a conversation. You can share tips, tricks, and other great subject matter. Making a contact (or a new friend!) is always a win.

These are just a few tips so you can take some great snaps during the United Ink Tattoo & Body Arts Expo. We hope to see you soon!

]]>http://www.tattoolous.com/blog/new-york-tattoo-festivals-announced/feed/2Guest Artists at the Inked Republichttp://www.tattoolous.com/blog/guest-artists-at-the-inked-republic/
http://www.tattoolous.com/blog/guest-artists-at-the-inked-republic/#commentsWed, 03 Dec 2014 19:13:11 +0000http://www.tattoolous.com/blog/?p=11236Tattooing is a world wide art form, and at Tattoo Lou’s Inked Republic we invite talented artists to guest spot at our Westfield Southshore Mall location, so that YOU can have a once in a lifetime opportunity to be tattooed by some of these famous artists from across the globe.

You can pre-book these artists by leaving a deposit either online or by calling Dan directly at 631-665-1908.

You may wonder why we would do two shows in such close proximity to each other, but know this, these shows are two VERY different shows with two totally different vibes!

“No Limits” is a BIG show- approximately 300 booths. This show is a fun, fast paced event with your traditional one room convention setup. There will be artists from all around the globe including some from our own backyard. Set inside the Resorts World Casino NY, this venue is open to anyone 18 years of age or older. With this in mind we’ve created a “grown ups” only show…. leaving nothing to the imagination! Our Emcee’ Joey Tattoo of Tattoo Rescue fame, will be announcing alongside The Queen of Ink herself Jackie Rubino and a few other special guest surprises!

Booths are selling out quick and we anticipate being sold out by the first of the year! So don’t delay and book a booth a.s.a.p by clicking HERE.

IF YOU ARE JUST ATTENDING THE SHOW YOU CAN PURCHASE TICKETS ONLINE BY CLICKING HERE.

$25.00 Each Day, or SAVE and buy a weekend pass for $55.00!

Friday March 20th – Doors open at 2pm 11pm

Saturday & Sunday March 21st, 22nd – Doors open at Noon

MUST BE 18 YEARS OF AGE TO ATTEND THE CONVENTION. PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS ONLINE:

Flight 915 is called that for a very special reason. Did you ever tattoo under a vintage fighter jet? Or how about a space module? Well we do at Flight 915! The entire show goes down in an aviation and aerospace museum, in and around the exhibits. Also at our disposal is an IMAX Theatre, SMART BOARD classrooms for seminars, an outdoor stage and music area, and much more!! This show is a bit smaller – about 120 booths, and as a result more intimate, sort of like a “grown up” show… (not really…haha). With a focus on industry education, we offer many seminars and classes, as well as history and relevant industry movies and videos.

BOTH SHOWS will have a completely curated art gallery for you to submit art for show or sale, live artist fusion events going on all weekend and famous artists such as Francisco Poblet.

United Ink is a full weekend experience making sure you have plenty to do! We provide after party events and free shuttle service running from the host hotels to the convention venues and any after events. We also have a discounted rate for any airport pickup/drop-offs.

There will be suspension shows like nothing you have ever seen before and music and entertainment acts all weekend long. There will also be the standard offering of contests… with a few twists of course.

Full Throttle’s 5th Annual Christmas Party and Toy Drive/Run to Benefit the Child Life Program & Ski’s Kids at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital

Full Throttle Magazine is collecting toys for the Child Life Program & Ski’s Kids at Stony Brook Childrens Hospital, RIGHT NOW! Tattoo Lou’s is helping by providing two convenient locations to help with the toy drive collections. You can bring a toy to any of The Locations Listed below from now until December 2nd.

TATTOO LOU’S HAS TWO DROP OFF LOCATIONS, PLUS HERE ARE THE OTHER TOY DROP OFF LOCATIONS:

Then Santa’s Helpers from the Centereach, Selden, Nesconset, Setauket, Port Jefferson, Hagerman, Farmingville, Ronkonkoma, Terryville and St. James Fire Departments will be collecting the donations and bringing them to the:

Join us in Celebrating the Holidays! Santa, Mrs. Claus & his helpers… The Lovely JoJo & Friends will be arriving on Santa’s sled with a sack of gifts for all the good biker boys & girls! Featuring The Jeff Regan Band, Acoustic Sounds of Kane Daily, DJ Entertainment by DJ Joey Full Buffet, Drink Specials, Dessert Bar, Holiday Sweets, Special Chinese Auction Appearance by Miss Full Throttle Melisa Vlasaty (Posing for Photos and Autographing Posters)

Full Throttle Toy Run Sunday December 7th

Registration begins 9-11am at Centereach F.D. Sub Station #3. Across from 91 North Howell Ave.(and Rudy Way) Centereach NY, 11720 KU 11:15am Breakfast Bagels & Coffee provided by ‘Yankee Joe’ from Strathmore Bagels 631-509-1956 Benefits Run goes to The Child Life Program and Ski’s Kids at Stony Brook University Medical Center 100 Nichol’s Rd, Stony Brook. Ride: $20/bike or $10 w/new unwrapped toy. Your donation at the party also includes your Ride Reg. Fee! Grand Marshal – Fingers from WBAB will be Leading the Run along with theSon’s of Italia MC , Riders of Fire MC, and “Santa” will be riding aboard the Selden F.D. Christmas Sled!

DOWNLOAD THE COMPLETE PACKET WITH ALL THE INFORMATION ON THIS EVENT BY CLICKING HERE

IF YOU CAN NOT MAKE THE EVENT YOU CAN STILL DONATE:

If you would like to make a monetary donation to support the Child Life Program, please make checkspayable to: SBF (Stony Brook Foundation).Write Child Life/ftm in the memo portion and mail to:Stony Brook Children’s HospitalAttn: Child Life11 South, Room 146Stony Brook, NY 11794-7111

Or If you wish to make a donation to Stony Brook Children’s Hospital, please contact Advancement at (631) 444-2899.

August 17th, 2014- Tattoo Lou’s Presents their 5th Annual Benefit/Poker Run & Party Open to the Public – with all proceeds benefiting Easter Seals NY.

This event welcomes cars and bikes to participate in our Poker Run that will start at New York Tattoo Supply located on 85 Hoffman Lane Suite “P” in Islandia NY. Conveniently located off the South Service Road of the L.I.E. of exit 57. We will start the registration at 11am and end it by 12:00 noon. The Poker Run fee is $20.00 per person per hand, with a cost of $10.00 for each additional hand purchased. We will accept cash and or checks only for payment BUT you must make checks payable to “Easter Seals NY”.

Popei’s Restaurant and Bar at 451 Middle Country Road in Coram NY is the Last Stop and where the benefit party will begin at 1:00pm. The party is open to the public and everyone is welcomed. The donation is $20.00 per person cash or check ONLY, Car & Bike show entries do not have to pay an additional fee… but please enter your vehicle before 2pm.

Easter Seals New York provides programs and services to children, adults and veterans with disabilities and other special needs, and their families. Our goal is to help individuals with special needs gain dignity, equality and independence. We provide the highest quality services in the most caring and cost-effective manner. Our staff and volunteers have a long-standing commitment to serve those for whom no other resources exist.

Easter Seals New York was founded in 1922 as one of the first organizations to aid people with disabilities. For the last 80 years, we have been producing programs that enable those with special needs to achieve equality, dignity, and independence in their own communities. We are a non-profit community-based organization dedicated to improving the health and welfare of New York State children and adults with special needs. Statewide, our programs and services provide innovative solutions that enhance the lives of people with disabilities and other special needs, while heightening community awareness and acceptance. Visit Easter Seals NY for more information.

VENDORS & RAFFLES PRICES NEEDED- Contact 631-584-3858 or please email margaret@tattoolous.com if you would like to be a vendor- 10×10 spots are $50.00 and 10×20 spots are $75.00.

PLEASE EMAIL bubba@tattoolous.com if you have a TAX-DEDUCTIBLE Raffle prize you would like to donate.

]]>http://www.tattoolous.com/blog/long-island-events-tattoo-lous/feed/0Tattoo Safety by Tattoo Louhttp://www.tattoolous.com/blog/tattoo-safety-by-tattoo-lou/
http://www.tattoolous.com/blog/tattoo-safety-by-tattoo-lou/#commentsSat, 05 Apr 2014 01:55:59 +0000http://www.tattoolous.com/blog/?p=205At Tattoo Lou’s, we operate at the highest level of safety possible for tattooing. Here in Suffolk County, NY, the Board of Health regulates all professional tattooing. In order to tattoo, each artist must be licensed, and each studio must be licensed. We pride ourselves on providing the safest tattoo experience possible for our customers. In order to help protect you, here’s what you as a customer should be looking out for when you get a tattoo.

First, your artist will begin to prep the tattooing area. As your artist begins prep their station, they should take off any body jewelry that they’re wearing. The workstation should then be cleaned with a surface disinfectant, and any paper towels or wipes should be thrown in the garbage. Garbage cans should have a foot pedal to open them so that the artist never has to touch the garbage can during any part of the tattooing process.

The artist should then thoroughly wash his hands using an anti-bacterial soap and apply gloves in order to set up the tattoo station. If you have a latex allergy, be sure to let your artist know because most artists will use latex gloves. If you are allergic, most artists will have Nitril gloves on hand to solve this before it becomes a problem. First, a dental bib goes out on top of the station so the artist can place their needles, inks, and other needed items on the surface. Barrier film is used to protect surfaces that must be touched during the tattooing (faucet handles, etc) – you’ve probably seen it in your dentist office. A little plastic holder comes out for the inks – inks are poured into the holder and disposed of after the tattoo process has been completed. No inks should ever be reused!

Your artist will then prepare his needle. All needles used in tattooing today are disposable, single-serve, and pre-sterilized. They are packaged in sterile blister packages like a hypodermic needle or any other needle you’d see at the doctor’s office. The tubes used in tattooing can be disposable or stainless steel, depending on the shop. Disposable tubes are obviously thrown away after one use, and the stainless steel ones are cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaner and sterilized in an autoclave just as a doctor’s tools would be. All disposable needles and tubes have indicators on the packaging to signify that they are sterile. A little blue dot on the packaging starts as a red dot and changes to blue to indicate that the sterilization process was completed. They’re also all dated with an expiration date and warning label saying that they should not be used if the package has been damaged or tampered with. The needle is put into the tube and attached to the tattoo machine. Always make sure that your artist opens a fresh, brand-new needle right in front of you. Your artist should also use an object called an eye loop to check the needle for any sort of imperfections.

The chair in which you will be tattooed in should be covered—some artists will only cover the part of the chair on which the tattoo will be, like the arm, but there are also covers available to cover the whole chair. Many artists will also use traditional saran wrap will as a barrier on the armrests.

After everything is covered, tattoo machines would be set up, and all materials needed to do the tattoo would be double-checked. Then, the artist would prepare to actually complete the tattoo. First, the pair of gloves being worn by the artist would be removed and thrown out, and the artist would again wash his hands with an antibacterial soap. After a fresh pair of gloves is put on, the artist would then put on tattoo sleeves as a layer of added protection for both him and you. Note: at this point, the artist shouldn’t be touching anything unless a barrier film has already been applied to it. The barrier films will be removed after your tattoo is completed. If your artist, for any reason, touches anything else, answers a phone call, etc., his gloves should be taken off first, and a new pair put on before your tattoo is resumed.

After the tattoo is completed, the tattoo needles will be removed from the tubes and placed in a medical waste “sharps” container. Special companies who deal with medical waste will take the containers full of used needles and make sure that they are properly disposed of. The artist should then dispose of everything else—the ink, the tubes, etc—that was used to complete your tattoo. Barrier film, tattoo sleeves, and gloves should also be removed and thrown out. Then, the entire tattoo station should again be wiped clean with a surface disinfectant. After all of that is completed, the tattoo artist should again wash his hands with an anti-microbile soap.

After your tattoo is finished, the rest of the aftercare is up to you. You MUST take good care of your tattoo. Your artist will bandage your tattoo up with non-stick gauze while you’re in the shop. Two to three hours after your tattoo is finished, wash your hands thoroughly, remove the gauze, and apply a healing ointment to your tattoo. These healing ointments include Bacitracin, Tattoo Goo, and A&D—use whatever your artist recommends. After washing your tattoo and applying your ointment, it’s fine to let your tattoo “air out”, as long as you are not wearing tight clothing or have anything rubbing against it. It is okay to get your tattoo wet—you must do this to gently wash it off—but DO NOT submerge your tattoo in water. For instance, you may shower, but do not swim, take a bath, or use a hot tub for the first ten days after your tattoo. You should also not have your tattoo in direct sunlight for the first ten days. After this ten-day period is over, make sure you use a good sunscreen – the higher the SPF, the better – on top of your tattoo. Also, it is normal for tattoos to peel and itch – this is part of the healing process.

The life of your tattoo depends on YOU. At Tattoo Lou’s, we care about your protection and satisfaction. Of course, if you have any questions about aftercare or how to prolong the life of your tattoo, Tattoo Lou’s is always here to help. Call or stop by any of our locations, and an artist would be glad to answer your questions or concerns. All of the artists here at Tattoo Lou’s love what they do, and it is our job to make sure that all of our customers stay safe.

In a fascinating legal case, Chris Escobedo, the owner of Elite Tattoo has filed suit against video game maker THQ for recreating tattoos Escobedo designed for Carlos Condit, a former UFC champion as part of their UFC Undisputed games. What many people might not know is that copyrights on tattoos are actually owned by the tattoo artists and not the people bearing their ink, unless there is a contract created to transfer the rights. Because Escobedo did not grant permission for his art to be recreated, and because he was not compensated for it, he has a strong case. The outcome of this suit will likely have long-term implications for the use and recreation of tattoo art in media.

Fast Fact: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 5 Americans now have at least one tattoo!

Ok, so recently we were graced with images of Scarlett Johansson's newest tattoo, a horseshoe with the words "Lucky You" inked on her ribcage. As it turns out, we didn't realize just how lucky we were to get a glimpse of it! Scarjo appeared on Letterman this week and talked about the tattoo, saying it was only supposed to be seen by those few men (or women?? Though she's officially denied being bisexual, we can always dream!) with whom the A-list beauty chooses to spend some private sexy time with. It was her tattoo artist who apparently couldn't contain himself and uploaded the pics to the web. Though we're incredibly grateful this Thanksgiving weekend for this gift bestowed on us average folks, who will never have the pleasure of Ms. Johansson's intimate attentions, it really would have been awesome for anyone stripping down with her for the first time to be surprised by the secret message hiding under her shirt!

We hope everyone has enjoyed a Happy Thanksgiving! We'll see you next week with more Tattoo in the News!

Robert Drake is a professional freelance writer, editor, copywriter and blogger. To learn more about this fascinating fellow, visit his website.

Getting a traditional Polynesian tattoo might seem like an awesome idea, but anyone who has ever gone through the procedure could tell you that it may be one of the hardest things you ever attempt. It is extremely long, extremely painful, and not for the feint of heart!

The entire procedure for the traditional pe'a (fully covering the torso and upper legs) would take about three months to complete. Every day, the warrior would undergo as much work as he could stand before the pain became too great or until dusk descended. Sometimes it was necessary to take a few days off to let the extreme skin inflammation calm down. The healing process took up to a year, with extensive aftercare of salt water washes and skin massages being necessary to avoid infection. Simple actions like walking were difficult and required assistance by friends and family.

Avoiding or quitting the tattoo process had dire consequences. Those who could not endure the procedure would be shunned by society, considered a coward for life. Because of this, despite the extreme, long-lasting pain, there were few who shrank from the challenge of getting tattooed.

Robert Drake is a professional freelance writer, editor, copywriter and blogger. To learn more about this fascinating fellow, visit his website.